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Old Fashion Ice Cream

Helen T. Patterson
Making homemade old-fashioned ice cream is a fun and rewarding process that results in a creamy, rich treat perfect for any occasion.
This classic recipe uses simple ingredients like heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and egg yolks to create a smooth custard-based ice cream.
Whether you prefer it in a cone, a sundae, or as a milkshake, this homemade ice cream will remind you of simpler times and offer a deliciously nostalgic flavor.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American, Traditional
Servings 8 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • Ice Cream Maker (Electric or Hand-Cranked) – 1 unit
  • Medium Saucepan: 1 unit
  • Whisk: 1 unit
  • Large Mixing Bowl – 1 unit
  • Fine Mesh Strainer – 1 unit
  • Measuring cups and spoons (1 set)
  • Airtight Container (for freezing, 1 unit)

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups 480 mL Whole Milk
  • 1 cup 240 mL Heavy Cream
  • ¾ cup 150 g Granulated Sugar
  • 5 large Egg Yolks
  • 1 tablespoon 15 mL Pure Vanilla Extract
  • Pinch of Salt

Instructions
 

Prepare the Custard Base:

  • In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, and granulated sugar.
    Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add a small amount of the hot milk mixture to the yolks, whisking constantly to temper them.
    Slowly return the yolk mixture to the saucepan, whisking continuously.
  • Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Do not let it boil.

Chill the Custard:

  • Pour the custard through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean bowl to remove any curdled bits. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
  • Once cooled, stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
    Cover and refrigerate the custard for at least 4 hours or overnight until very cold.

Churn the Ice Cream:

  • Pour the chilled custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
    This usually takes about 20-30 minutes in an electric ice cream maker.
  • The ice cream should have a soft, creamy consistency when done.

Freeze the Ice Cream:

  • Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and place it in the freezer.
    Freeze for at least 2-4 hours to firm up to a scoopable consistency.

Serve:

  • Scoop the homemade ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy!
    You can also top it with your favorite toppings such as chocolate chips, sprinkles, or a cherry.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor: You can experiment by adding other extracts like almond or hazelnut to the custard base.
  • Mix-ins: Add crushed cookies, chocolate chunks, or fruit when the ice cream reaches soft-serve consistency.
  • Egg-free alternative: You can omit the egg yolks for an eggless version of this ice cream. The result will be a slightly less creamy texture, but still delicious.
  • Storage: Homemade ice cream lasts for up to 2-3 weeks in an airtight container in the freezer.
Keyword Old Fashion Ice Cream